The bustling streets of Montecatini Terme are set to welcome the renowned market of Forte dei Marmi, an event that promises to showcase the best of Italian craftsmanship and the latest fashion trends. Scheduled for April 12, 2025, and again on September 7, 2025, the market will be located in the heart of the city, specifically between Corso Roma, Piazza del Popolo, and Piazza XX Settembre.
The consortium of ambulants from Forte dei Marmi, which boasts a legacy dating back to 2002, asserts its originality and emphasizes the quality of its offerings. The group has made it clear that imitations and low-quality knock-offs are strictly prohibited by their statutes. According to the consortium, “Our brand is now synonymous with exclusive and affordable shopping,” a sentiment echoed by its president, Andrea Ceccarelli.
As excitement builds for the upcoming market, some local critics have raised concerns about its impact on existing businesses in Montecatini. Notably, Andrea Bonvicini, a local merchant and minority council member, along with Maurizio Innocenti, president of the ambulants of Anva Confesercenti, have questioned the originality of the event. They argue that it could conflict with local merchants who have established businesses and the weekly market held on Thursdays near the stadium.
Critics also point to the nearby Grocco-La Salute market, which has struggled for years, as another reason for concern. They fear that the influx of the Forte dei Marmi market could overshadow these local enterprises, raising questions about the sustainability of the existing markets.
Despite the pushback, the consortium maintains that their market is a unique opportunity for consumers to experience the best of Tuscan and Italian craftsmanship. Ceccarelli highlighted the variety of products available, stating, “On our large sales counters, one can find the best of the Tuscan and Italian tradition of quality craftsmanship—clothing, high-quality leather goods, cashmere, fine fabrics, home linens, porcelain, jewelry, and exquisite Florentine art.”
The market will operate continuously from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, rain or shine, offering a vibrant atmosphere filled with colorful stalls and a wide array of products. “It will be an authentic spectacle of stalls, colors, and crowds, reviving the magical atmospheres of the Forte market, synonymous with genuineness and guaranteed artisanal quality,” the consortium stated.
Marco Silvestri, the city’s assessor for productive activities, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “It is with great pleasure that, along with Mayor Claudio Del Rosso, we host the extraordinary market organized by the consortium of ambulants from Forte dei Marmi, an event that fits perfectly in a city rich in commercial, cultural, thermal, sports, and gastronomic excellence.”
Before making its way to Montecatini, the Forte dei Marmi market will travel to several locations, including Marino and Frosinone in Lazio, followed by Pavia, Velletri, Lido di Ostia, and Fiumicino. This tour illustrates the market's commitment to bringing its unique offerings to a wider audience across Italy.
The Pavia market will take place on April 13, 2025, in Via dei Mille, once again showcasing the best of Made in Italy artisan goods and the latest fashion trends. The consortium, which has become a staple in the Italian market scene, invites enthusiasts to explore their stalls and experience the quality firsthand.
Ceccarelli emphasized the importance of distinguishing their market from imitations, stating, “Our invitation is to be wary of any imitation attempts and to evaluate directly among our stalls the quality of our goods and the coordinated image of our stalls.”
As the market prepares for its upcoming events, the consortium encourages consumers to visit its official website and social media channels, which boast over 200,000 real and certified fans. The website provides a complete calendar of market dates and locations, ensuring that fans remain informed about where to find their favorite artisans.
In an era where quality and authenticity are increasingly valued by consumers, the Forte dei Marmi market stands out as a beacon of Italian craftsmanship. With its commitment to high-quality products and a unique shopping experience, it is no wonder that the market continues to attract both local and visiting shoppers alike.
As the event approaches, Montecatini Terme is poised to become a hub of fashion and artisanal excellence, inviting all to partake in what promises to be a memorable shopping experience. With its rich history and dedication to quality, the Forte dei Marmi market is not just a shopping destination but a celebration of Italian culture and craftsmanship.
